ELM327 is a budget auto scanner with a wide range of functions that will be a real boon for every car owner. It is designed specifically to quickly and accurately perform high-quality engine diagnostics in accordance with the OBD2 standard. The undeniable advantage and key difference of ELM327 from most analogues is the fact that they are able to fully work in various specialized programs, thereby significantly expanding the capabilities of the adapter.
- Manufacturer – PRC
- The package includes: scanner, program list with detailed connection instructions.
- The length of the warranty is 3 months.
ELM327 is an inexpensive universal car scanner with compact size and a lot of features. It is intended for diagnostics of passenger cars, for its full operation it is necessary to pair it with a modern device based on Android OS.
For the device to work with an iOS-based smartphone, you must purchase a WiFi version of the same scanner. Information is exchanged with Android devices via Bluetooth connection. To operate the device, you will need to install specialized software (it must be downloaded from PlayMarket).
The ELM327 Bluetooth version 1.5 includes two boards that are combined with a single PIC18F25K80 processor. Unlike cheaper variants with a single board, they can be used to diagnose a wide range of car models. The devices work not only according to the eOBD/OBD2 standard (meaning diagnostics of the control unit of the power plant, in which sensor errors and their parameters are available, in one way or another related to exhaust gases), but also according to the factory parameters of car manufacturers.
In other words, after diagnostics with the help of this scanner, the car owner will get more detailed information about the condition of the car and the existing faults. The device is able to read ABS, TPMS, SRS and other units. In a number of programs, the scanner can perform a wide range of settings such as activating, deactivating, and configuring all sorts of options. The more accurate capabilities of this scanner depend on what make and model of car it is used on. The newer the machine, the wider the functionality of the device. The selected software also plays an important role.
Important! Note that the last photo shows two different scanners. On the left side is the right side and on the right side is the wrong side.
The point is that two boards and a PIC18F25K80 microprocessor are not a guarantee that the device will function properly in Vag DPF, Carista and other programs. So the wrong scanner, that is, the one shown in the photo on the right, will only work according to the OBD2-standard, without supporting specialized software. That’s why you need to choose your scanner responsibly.
Vehicle Compatibility:
The scanner supports most vehicle models from 2003 model year and younger. The minimum it can do in the most extreme case is to read the engine block via OBD2 protocol. In the long run, however, it is capable of handling all units and supporting different configurations. As for old cars (1996-2003 years. c.), the probability of connection to them is much lower, the device will be able to work only via OBD2-protocol.
Software for working with ELM327 (you can find them on PlayMarket):
- Car Scanner (for Android and iOS). A versatile software solution, rightfully considered the best of its kind. Supports most of today’s cars.
- MotorData (for Android and iOS). Not a bad software that supports the installation of additional plug-ins.
- Carista (for Android and iOS). Used mainly for customizing all sorts of options on the VAG group. Suitable for diagnosing BMW and MINI brand cars, as well as MINI, Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, Scion, Cupra.
- Universal software developed, however, only for Android devices. Supports installation of additional plugins.
- VAG DPF. Interfaces with Android smartphones, accurately identifies particulate filter problems on cars such as Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, Seat.
- PyClip (optimal version is 2.1). Designed for Renault and Dacia diagnostics.
- A software solution designed to diagnose Renault electric cars.
- Fluence Ze Spy. A similar program to the previous one, designed to diagnose the Renault Fluence exclusively.
- Allows you to perform diagnostics of Ford, Mazda, Lincoln.
- Chevrolet Volt electric car program.
- ELMScan Toyota. Android app for Toyota and Lexus cars.
- ToyoSys Scan. Almost a complete analog to the previous solution.
- MotorData Hybrid. A program designed for diagnostics of hybrid cars of Toyota and Lexus brands.
- Dr. Prius. As the name implies, the program is exclusively for the Toyota Prius.
- OpenDiag. Android solution for VAZ, GAZ, ZAZ, UAZ cars.
- LeafSpy is a program designed to diagnose the Nissan Leaf.
- Econ Tool. Android app for Nissan brand vehicles.
- CVTz A program that runs on Android and when using a scanner allows you to diagnose Nissan, Renault cars. Performs a thorough inspection of the motor, variator, and four-wheel drive system. The functionality provides for a wide range of all kinds of settings.
- AlfaOBD is a program for premium cars such as Maserati, but it is also applicable to more common vehicles – Alfa Romeo, Fiat or Lancia, Abarth, Dodge RAM, Chrysler, Jeep, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen.
- DPF Monitor-Fiat&Alfa Romeo. Android application for diagnosing Fiat and Alfa Romeo cars. Performs a complete diesel particulate filter diagnosis.
- Jscan is an Android solution for Jeep scanning.
- WJdiag Free. A program designed for Android devices, but connects to them exclusively via Bluetooth. Like the previous option, it is designed for Jeep diagnostics.
- FAP. Diagnostic software for Peugeot and Citroen.
- ScanMyOpel. Android app for Opel diagnostics via K-Line (suitable for older cars).
- ScanMyOpelCAN. Extensive Opel diagnostics with CAN.
- OPL DTC Reader. A software solution designed for Android smartphones, but connects to them exclusively via Bluetooth connection. Fits Opel, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Aveo T
- OPL Monitor. Program for diagnostics of Opel cars with diesel engines, but only from 2009 model year.
- Android app for Ford Focus 2 and C-Max 1, allowing you to make various adjustments.
- FFConfig 3. Program for Ford Focus 3, Ford Kuga 2 and Ford Kuga 2. There is a possibility of settings, works on Android devices.
- Scan my Tesla. Android app for Tesla, but you need to purchase an optional adapter to connect.
- SZ Viewer. Suzuki software solution. Installed on Android smartphones.
Operating Instructions
To connect the scanner, you need to find, download and upload the appropriate program to your smartphone.
Next, connect the device to the vehicle’s OBD2 connector.
Open Bluetooth settings on your smartphone, connect it to the scanner (the device will be displayed as OBD2, you will be prompted to enter the password – 1234).
Open the program settings, select the connection type – Bluetooth. In the program select OBD2 among the available devices.
If necessary, fill out a vehicle profile, specifying the make and model of the vehicle, powertrain type, year of manufacture, and anything else required.
Start the engine or simply turn the key in the ignition (depends on the vehicle). After that, tap the “Connect” button in the program.
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